7 Wardrobe Essentials You’re Going to Need for This Winter

Sponsor Content Created With Monki

monki-winter-2020-290400-1606837090680-main

(Image credit: Monki)

This winter might look set to be a tough one, with many travel restrictions still in place and varying levels of limitations on socialising for us all. But, that’s not to say all is lost. We’re all about making the most of what’s in front of us, which means preparing ourselves as well as we can for a great British winter. To help, we’ve put together a checklist of sorts with one of our favourite high street destinations for affordable trend-focused buys, Monki

From cosy puffer coats and winter layers to keep you warm whilst you brave the pub garden or a socially-distanced walk with friends, to Zoom-ready (read: comfy and jazzy on top) partywear for festive digital catch-ups, think of this as your winter 2020 capsule collection. Of course, there’s also some loungewear in there, and Monki’s offering is one of the best we’ve found on the high street, with minimalist designs and interesting colour ways, matching sets and chic separates (we’ll take the knitted trousers please). It’s not all about practical basics though, sometimes a great statement accessory and some matching lingerie is all it takes for a much needed pick-me-up, something that has become just as essential for its mood-boosting properties this year. 

So, keep scrolling to shop seven key categories Monki has nailed this winter, that will arm you with all you need to see you through until next spring. 

monki-winter-2020-290400-1606837103837-main

(Image credit: Monki)

1. The Puffer Coat

Arguably already the coat of the season, the puffer has come into it's own for 2020. Not that we're complaining when it means we can be toasty whilst still on-trend— win, win. Monki's styles have been selling fast on our site already so be sure to snap up these new-in ones quickly.

2. Zoom-Ready Party Outfits

We fully appreciate a festive dress with plenty of room for, let's say, enjoyment. Nobody wants to be turning down that last mince pie due to waistline restrictions. We'll be pairing these throw-on styles with knee-high boots for the big day. Wide-leg black trousers are a classic (and a great party option for minimalists) that can be dressed up with a sparkly cardigan for Zoom drinks and easily taken into January's frosty days with a chunky knit. 

3. A Cosy Cardigan

Our love for cardigans knows no bounds. We're very into texture, grandad collars and long line v-neck styles this year, and Monki's selection delivers on all fronts. Plus, they're great way to make a more summery dress feel winter-appropriate. 

4. Luxe Loungewear

From the pistachio-coloured sweatshirt (added to basket) to the perfect shape of sweatpants, Monki just seems to get what we want from our loungewear this year. Cosy enough to wear on the sofa but nice enough to run errands in. We remain very grateful.

5. Winter Layers

If there's one way to ensure you'll stay warm whilst adding interest to your outfit for those dinners al-fresco, it's layering well. Think high-necked blouses, thin knits to trap in the heat and another jacket layer to fit under your puffer, of course. 

6. Fun Accessories

This year may have tried it's hardest to deny us of a great handbag or shoe moment, but we simply won't allow it any longer. Make the most of those limited outings by adding the most fun accessory you can find— it's amazing how nice it feels to wear a heeled boot again.. 

7. Feel-Good Underwear

If the last few months have taught us anything, it's to focus on the little things that bring you joy, and celebrate them. One of those things is, of course, new, fancy, matching underwear. We love Monki's new collection for feeling special but still comfortable under our festive looks. 

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.